A chance encounter with a reproduction of Rembrandt’s The Return of the Prodigal Son catapulted Henri Nouwen on a long spiritual adventure. Here he shares the deeply personal and resonant meditation that led him to discover the place within where God has chosen to dwell.

In seizing the inspiration that came to him through Rembrandt’s depiction of the powerful Gospel story Henri Nouwen probes the several movements of the parable: the younger son’s return the father’s restoration of sonship the elder son’s vengefulness and the father’s compassion. In his reflection on Rembrandt in light of his own life journey the author evokes the powerful drama of the parable in a rich captivating way that is sure to reverberate in the hearts of readers. The themes of homecoming affirmation and reconciliation will be newly discovered by all who have known loneliness dejection jealousy or anger. The challenge to love as the father and be loved as the son will be seen as the ultimate revelation of the parable known to Christians throughout time and here represented with a vigor and power fresh for our times.

For all who ask “Where has my struggle led me?” or for those “on the road” who have had the courage to embark on the journey but seek the illumination of a known way and safe passage this work will inspire and guide each time it is read.